The Floyd Wickman "Get By Giving" Award is prestigious honor in the real estate industry, named after Floyd Wickman, a renowned real estate trainer and motivational speaker.  The award recognizes individuals who exemplify selflessness and generosity, embodying the philosophy of "giving without expecting anything in return. " Recipients are celebrated for their dedication to helping others succeed, fostering a a culture of collaboration and service in their communities and professional lives.  The accolade highlights the importance of integrity, mentorship, and a spirit of contribution in the achieving meaningful success.    Hugh is deeply honored to have received the Get By Giving Award.              

When discussing the benefits of home improvement, the spotlight often falls on how a new kitchen or bathroom remodel can increase a home's potential sale price.  These two rooms, more than any others, offer the best return on investment if you're looking to maximize your home's value.   Of course, most improvements are aimed at enhancing the owners' lifestyle and enjoyment and have nothing to do with moving up the property ladder or downsizing for financial gain.   However, these high-cost upgrades shouldn't come at the expense of essential repairs that maintain the structural integrity of your home.   Confronting issues like a shifting foundation or a damp basement can be uncomfortable.  While it may be more appealing to invest in an outdoor entertainment area, the wisest approach is always to tackle structural problems first.   As an experienced realtor in your neighborhood, I've learned that renovation dollars should prioritize what your home needs, rather than just the "nice-to-haves."   If you are thinking of selling, don't assume you can hide the problems. Prospective buyers will likely order inspections with both a builder and pest control expert, often as a mortgage lending requirement.  Issues like cracked walls and termite infestations won't go unnoticed. So, before planning a kitchen upgrade to boost your return on investment, make sure the basics are in good shape. In my work with clients, I always recommend that the home's structural integrity be beyond question.  Money spent on a new kitchen is wasted if the buyer's main concern is the cost of fixing neglected issues. Don't view these repairs as obstacles but as opportunities  You'll never realize your home's full value potential unless it's in excellent condition. To help you navigate these challenges, I've created a list of common issues to inspect around your property.  I hope it helps, and if you need assistance achieving a great sale price or finding a home, please don't hesitate to reach out. Good Bones - This real estate term describes a structurally sound house. Walk around your home, inside and out, and look for cracks in walls, broken bricks, missing mortar, rotting boards, or anything else that might need attention. Hard Wired - Prospective buyers often worry about the condition of the wiring in older homes and may ask a builder or electrician for an assessment.  Replacement can cost several thousand dollars, so if it's not in good order, many buyers will look elsewhere. Increased Dampness - If you see mold on walls, your home may suffer from increased dampness.  This could be caused by water intrusion in the foundation or siding and needs to be addressed quickly.  New techniques have made fixing this problem easier and more affordable. Asbestos - We are all aware of asbestos dangers, and its presence can be a major deterrent for buyers.  I recommend replacing it before putting your home on the market.  Hire a company specializing in asbestos removal-- never attempt this yourself. Rotting Frames - Older homes often have rotting wooden window frames.  When replacing them, consider new fiberglass frames for longevity.  If it's beyond your budget, consider hiring a professional to refurbish them. Budget Squeeze - For the budget-conscious, make only essential cosmetic improvements.  By all means, add a new countertop in the kitchen, but avoid overspending if you are planning to move.  Brush Up -  Painting the interior is an impactful, relatively inexpensive improvement, especially if you do it yourself.  Consider painting the front of your home to create a great first impression, and a fresh coat of paint on the front door makes a big impact. Classy Touch - New door handles and lighting fixtures can make a big difference.  A stylish lighting fixture in the living areas can create a lasting impression on prospective buyers.

If you're in buying or selling mode right now, you'll be watching property prices and wondering what current market trends mean for you.   Home values can be influenced by various factors, including interest rates and investor activity.  However, it's important to remember that while national trends are interesting, real estate is made up of local markets, so these broad statistics don't always directly translate to conditions in our neighborhood.     Market indicators can provide mixed signals.  For instance, we might see sales slowing in some areas while new home construction increases in others.  This combination of factors can affect supply and demand dynamics in complex ways.    As an experienced agent, I have put together four key strategic areas that will serve you well in any market condition:   Stay informed about local trends:  Focus on data specific to our area rather than national averages. Understand financing options:  Be aware of current mortgage rates and how they might affect your buying power or the pool of potential buyers for your property. Be prepared to act:  In a dynamic market, being ready to make decisions quickly can be adventageous. Think long-term:  Conisder your future needs and how a property might serve you beyond just the immediate future.   If I can be of assistance, and you'd like to discuss how our local market is performing, please do not hesitate to contact me.  I'm here to help you navigate the current real estate landscape and achieve your property goals.  Hugh Price Howard Hanna Real Estate